Chile : Activities : Surfing

Introduction
Basic Aspects
Destinations
Recommendations
Equipment
Books
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It is a sport that requires a lot of knowledge about the element upon which it is practiced: the sea. You will learn how to predict the movement of the water, by reading its surface and its waves and currents. After mastering these basics, you will be able to "ride the waves".

History

In the past, the sailors of Polynesia were forced to maneuver towards the coast by surfing, but we still do not know for sure if their abilities were responsible for the direct development of this sport.

In 1777 and 1778 captain James Cook and his crew were the first to report the existence of "surfers" with long boards and canoes in Tahiti and Oahu.

In 1821, European missionaries prohibited surfing as they considered it an immoral activity. In 1920 it was revived, when Duke Kahanamoku, a famous Hawaiian swimmer, who had already introduced surfing in Australia five years before, formed the first surf club in Waikiki. Kahanamoku died in 1968, but by then the sport had gained worldwide popularity and several international competitions were being organized on a regular basis.

In 1960, the International Surf Committee was founded and based out of Palm Beach, Florida. This organization is made up of the International Federation of Amateur Surf, the International Federation of Professional Surf, and the International Surf Foundation. The first worldwide championships were carried out in the 1960s on the coasts of the United States, Peru, Hawaii, South Africa, and Australia.

Surfing in Chile

Chile is a great destination for surfing, and from the Northern region to the Central region there are many beaches with the right conditions for the sport. You can surf practically all year round here, save for the middle of the winter (July and August) when weather conditions are non-conducive to surfing.

The water temperature fluctuates between 10º and 20ºC (50º and 68ºF), so using a wet suit is highly recommended.

In the North, the waves are smaller, but very forceful and between Arica and Iquique, "tubes" are common. The temperature of the water fluctuates between 15º and 20ºC (59º and 68ºF). Due to the difficult conditions of the Atacama desert, there are many unexplored, quiet beaches in this area. In the Central Region the water is a little bit colder, and there are steeper shores and bigger waves. 

The Easter Island surf is not so well known. Due to the characteristics of its beaches, where the waves break on lava and coral, it can be dangerous and should only be attempted by experts.

The best way to learn how to surf is by taking lessons with an experienced instructor. They can teach you all the techniques as well as how to look after yourself in the water. 

The best way is to begin in the so-called "smooth waters" (without waves) and by learning the basic board-controlling techniques: row, course, turns and sitting, among others. 

Although surfing certainly requires good physical condition and a sense of balance, both can be developed with practice.

For suggestions of sites, visit our Chile Attractions section.

• Respect nature.
• Do not dispose of garbage into the sea or on the beaches.

Safety

• You need to be a good swimmer.
• Take lessons from a qualified instructor.
• Use a bounding strap with the surf board.
• Surf only on beaches without rocks at the bottom.
• Choose a beach where the waves form and break periodically in the same place.
• Avoid riding a wave beyond your skills.
• Seek advice from experienced surfers who know the beach.

• Board
• Sealed water suit (wet suit)

Having the correct board is fundamental to good surfing. In the beginning, you can try lots of rented boards until you are sure of which one suits you. The board must measure at least 6 to 8 feet, in order for you to float and row easily. 

The suit must be selected according to the characteristics of the zone in which you will surf. For Chilean water conditions it is recommended that the suit have at least 4/3 mm thickness.

Stores

• Lonely Planet Chile & Easter Island
• Adventure Handbook Central Chile

More alternatives on texts in our Book section.

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